An elite task force of motorcycle police officers is going on the roads today to crack down on motorists breaking the law.

The 30 police motorcyclists will be operating across Warwickshire to tackle problems caused by nuisance bikers ignoring speed limits or performing dangerous stunts, such as wheelies, in the road.

As well as patrolling the roads, the task force will educate road users in how to travel safely.

The first operation begins on Friday, when motorcyclists displaying illegal number plates, such as ones which are undersized, written in italics or covered over, will be targeted.

Any motorcyclist caught out will be given an automatic penalty notice or be prosecuted at a magistrates court.

Two further offences and the biker would have his registration number taken away.

A police spokesman said over the past few years there had been a marked increase in the number of motorcycles on the roads.

Modern bikes were much quicker and more powerful than older machines, reaching speeds well over 100 mph.

He added: ?Although the majority of bikers are safe and considerate drivers, there is a growing number who cause a nuisance to other road users by ignoring speed limits or who perform dangerous stunts along the road.?

During the next few months the task force will run a series of operations including targeting specific actions such as dangerous riding, speeding, headlamp covers and contravening white lines.